The vibe of The Diplomat is kind of an amalgamation of shows I’ve liked: The Crown, Madam Secretary, West Wing, and more recently, the criminally unseen In from the Cold on Netflix.
Synopsis: “Kate Wyler (Keri Russell) is the new US Ambassador to the United Kingdom. She was supposed to go to Afghanistan. She’s great in a crisis zone. In a historic home… less so. War is brewing on one continent and boiling over on another. Kate will have to diffuse international crises, forge strategic alliances in London, and adjust to her new place in the spotlight — all while trying to survive her marriage to fellow career diplomat and political star Hal Wyler (Rufus Sewell). From showrunner Debora Cahn (THE WEST WING, HOMELAND), THE DIPLOMAT is a high-stakes, contemporary political drama about the transcendence and torture of long-term relationships, between countries and people. Also starring David Gyasi, Ali Ahn, Rory Kinnear, and Ato Essandoh, with executive producers Debora Cahn, Janice Williams, and Keri Russell.”
The cast are all around excellent. It’s fun watching Kei Russell (for those who remember her as a teenager) to drop F-bombs with such ease and such a naturalistic performance. Likewise, Rufus Sewell pulls off a tricky ole where he has to be both superb at diplomacy and intelligence, yet cheerfully sign himself to wreath-laying and playing the role of a “wife.” (Their word, not mine).
As far as plot goes—it’s petty standard stuff, partly ripped and rounded out from today’s headlines. What kept me watching all 8 episodes were the characters – they are diverse and represent just about every demographic group you can imagine?
Yes, it’s the format’s familiarity that may just be its strength. Like a comfy shoe you can slip on and spend time with people who go to all the swanky parties…and hate it. The interpersonal relationships cay the series and I’m on board for season two already.
Now Streaming on Netflix
